Following a state visit to Angola, President Suluhu said that her visit was far more than a diplomatic occasion. 'It was a declaration of intent, boldly reaffirming our enduring friendship and a commitment to elevate our bilateral relations to new heights,' she said.
Describing it as a 'game changer,' she underscored the importance of reinvigorating ties first forged by founding leaders Mwalimu Julius Nyerere and Agostinho Neto.
During her address to the Angolan Parliament, Suluhu evoked the warmth and solidarity between the two countries, likening Angola to 'one of the many houses one can have,' where 'the warmth and nostalgia keep getting better' with each visit.
Historically united by a shared struggle for liberation and Pan-African ideals, Tanzania and Angola are now pivoting toward mutual economic transformation. The leaders acknowledged that while political solidarity remains strong, economic cooperation has yet to reach its full potential.
Key areas of focus included trade, energy, transport, agriculture, and minerals. Angola's experience in oil and gas and its robust energy infrastructure complement Tanzania's growing economy, investment potential, and strategic location as a trade gateway in East, Central, and Southern Africa.
'We have agreed to foster closer cooperation in renewable energy, logistics, the blue economy, and regional trade, especially under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA),' Suluhu said.
Beyond economic priorities, both countries emphasized investing in people, particularly youth. 'We must empower our youth, who are brimming with talent, creativity, and ambition,' she stated, highlighting the need for education, technology, and entrepreneurship to drive inclusive development.
Gender parity, healthcare, education, and infrastructure were also celebrated as shared progress points, with both leaders vowing to strengthen people-to-people connections through cultural exchanges, tourism, and professional collaboration.
Suluhu reiterated the shared responsibility in ensuring regional peace, unity, and security through the Southern African Development Community (SADC).
'We will continue to support African solutions to African problems while constructively engaging global partners,' she said.
Quoting Mwalimu Nyerere, she reminded both nations that, 'Unity will not make us rich, but it can make it difficult for Africa and the African peoples to be disregarded and humiliated.'
At the summit of her visit, Suluhu called for the transformation of a shared history into a future of promise and innovation. 'Together we rise. Together, we shape Africa's tomorrow,' she said.
IGIHE
Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/tz-angola-leaders-meet-to-strengthen-bilateral-relations
